As the two opponents attacked, a slight smile appeared on Namikaze Nozuki's lips.
"Just as Reiki predicted—they're targeting me," she murmured.
With a surge of chakra, Nozuki formed multiple shadow clones.
"Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
Four clones materialized around her, and together, they launched a coordinated assault, overwhelming the attackers. Dust and mist swirled around, obscuring the scene, but the sounds of struggle and muffled screams could be heard from within.
"Hoichi!" one of the attackers shouted. "Not you too, Nito!"
The ninja who had launched a Fire Release technique began to panic, recognizing the voices of his comrades.
"Hey, now's not the time to worry about them," came Shisui's voice. In an instant, he and Reiki were upon the remaining opponent, swiftly ending the battle.
As the dust settled, all three opponents lay unconscious on the ground.
"The second match goes to Reiki, Uchiha Shisui, and Namikaze Nozuki!" announced Tsunade.
In the third match, as soon as it began, Reiki and his team immediately used potions, and Reiki administered special treatments for minor injuries from the previous fights. Although they had emerged victorious, small injuries were inevitable.
"Fighting like this—with potions and a medical ninja on hand—means minor injuries won't hinder them at all," observed Nara Shikaku. "They can restore stamina and chakra, facing each fight in peak condition."
"Tsunade's use of medicinal resources for combat training has really paid off," Yamanaka Haiichi commented, recognizing the effectiveness of the new approach. "Even in real combat, this style could be a game-changer."
"Yes," Akimichi Choza added. "On a mission with Minato not long ago, we nearly failed due to exhaustion. If we had these potions and a medical ninja, it would've been far less difficult." He was already considering stocking up on the potions himself. For Choza, using such resources was simply smart; staying alive to complete a mission was the ultimate responsibility.
Sarutobi Hiruzen watched intently, a thoughtful frown on his face. He'd initially assumed Tsunade was simply indulging her interests, but now it was clear she was onto something transformative. And the entire village was noticing.
With that realization, Hiruzen stood and left. There was no need to continue watching; he had decisions to make.
In the Hokage's office, Hiruzen retrieved a document titled: *Recommendations on the Necessity of Equipping Medical Ninjas in Combat Teams.*
Reviewing it carefully, he felt the weight of Tsunade's proposal. "Tsunade... what are you aiming for?" he muttered to himself.
Tsunade hadn't traditionally been a Hokage candidate in his mind. Although powerful and respected, her personality was independent and unconventional. He'd never thought she had the patience or interest to lead. Yet now, with her growing influence in the medical field, he began to question his assumptions.
"Could she follow the path I've set?" he pondered, as thoughts of his current choices troubled him. Danzo's influence over Orochimaru had become problematic, and Orochimaru's recent actions had raised concerns. The pool of candidates was dwindling. Perhaps Tsunade deserved a closer look.
---
Meanwhile, within the Root organization...
"Tsunade?" Orochimaru repeated, his tone impatient as he faced Danzo.
Danzo's recent interference had become frustrating, especially when his research was at a critical stage. Their agreement was to minimize contact unless necessary, yet here he was again.
Danzo was evaluating everyone who could potentially succeed as Hokage, treating any viable candidate as a threat. First, it was Jiraiya; now, it was Tsunade.
"Danzo-sama, are you seeing threats in everyone?"
"You may not be aware of Tsunade's recent medical ninja training," Danzo countered. "Many are following her example, and her potions are in high demand. I've received reports that orders are already booked through next month. Do you understand what that implies?"
"Of course," Orochimaru replied dismissively. "It means her objectives are achieved. She'll be too preoccupied making potions to care about leadership. Tsunade's no Hokage material—she's even less suited than Jiraiya."
Danzo sighed, frustrated by Orochimaru's lack of concern. "Just... remember to consider your own standing in the village. And don't neglect your relationships with Tsunade and Jiraiya."
"Understood," Orochimaru replied, nodding before he departed.
Danzo shook his head, watching Orochimaru leave. He began strategizing ways to strengthen Orochimaru's position. To him, the next Hokage was not a choice—it was someone to control.
Just then, a Root member approached. "Danzo-sama, the potion is here."
"Excellent. Analyze it immediately and prepare to replicate it."
>>>>>
Up to Chapter 360 available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
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